How can I support a loved one with a mental illness?
It's hard to know exactly what to do to help a loved one dealing with mental illness. In this video, Robin Miller, M.D. describes easy, realistic steps that will make a huge difference in the life of the person you want to help.
Transcript
Take some time to learn about the illness and treatment. Offer to drive her to and from medical appointments or pick up prescriptions.
Offer to attend appointments and take notes. Anyone can have a hard time remembering exactly what a doctor said.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Hi. I'm Dr. Miller. If you have a family member or friend who struggles with mental illness, you may wonder how you can help.
There are lots of ways you can offer meaningful support. First, just ask, how can I help? That alone can mean a lot to someone
struggling with mental illness. Let your loved one tell you what support she needs. But remember, she may feel shy about asking for help.
Here are more ways you can offer support. Take some time to learn about the illness and treatment. Offer to drive her to and from medical appointments
or pick up prescriptions. Offer to attend appointments and take notes. Anyone can have a hard time remembering
exactly what a doctor said. Offer to pick up groceries or make dinner one night a week. Offer to do the laundry or cleaning.
Most of all, only offer support that you know you can follow through on. And remember, one person can't do everything,
even if you truly want to. So set healthy limits and don't forget to take care of yourself too. I'm Dr. Miller.
For more ways to boost your family's well-being, watch all our smart tips. [AUDIO LOGO]
mental health behavior
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